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St. Ann Municipal Corporation Office of the Contractor General November 2017
4.
The OCG recommends that implementing agencies pay keen attention to the monitoring and
verification exercises as it concerns the engagement of contractors for the performance of de-
bushing and drain cleaning works. In this regard, the public body must ensure that
all contracted
works
are satisfactorily performed prior to the disbursement of public funds and that evidence of
same forms a part of the formal procurement record.
5.
The OCG recommends that in all circumstances rates and quantities are appropriately checked and
recorded to ensure transparency and accountability.
6.
The OCG recommends that Implementing Agencies and/or public bodies treat with paramount
importance and diligence, the implementation and execution of de-bushing and drain cleaning
works. It is critical that public bodies establish and enforce mechanisms to ensure effective
contract management, adherence to contract terms and conditions and ensuring value for money in
this regard. This recommendation is premised on the fact that works of this nature form a part of
the country’s flood mitigation and vector control programme, which if not effectively and properly
executed, may result in grave social and economic harm.
7.
It is strongly being recommended that the St. Ann Municipal Corporation prepare and utilize
properly structured labour contracts for the award of contracts for the execution of de-bushing and
drain cleaning works. It is noted that the OCG’s findings have revealed many cases wherein works
commence and are completed before contracts are signed by contractors.
Consequently, it is imperative that the Corporation ensures that such contracts are duly signed and
completed prior to the commencement of works by a contractor. It is also being recommended that
all contracts of this nature are typed rather than hand-written in the interest of transparency and
accountability.